Pumpkin Nut Bread

Combine first 7 ingredients in sifter; set aside.

Cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add eggs, one at a time; beat well after adding each.

Add pumpkin; mix well.

Add dry ingredients to mixture alternately with water (can use milk instead); mix well after each addition.

Add pecans and blend. You can add 2/3 cup prepared mincemeat now (but I never do!). Spoon into 2 greased and floured 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pans; bake at 300° for 1 1/2 hours.

(I usually bake at 325° in cake pan or 2 pans that equal a cake pan for 20 to 30 minutes.

These can also work for muffins for 12 to 15 minutes.)